Benefits of psyllium for individuals with type 2 diabetes
Results from this double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel study suggest
that supplementation with psyllium may be a safe and effective method
of improving glycemic and lipid control in certain individuals with
type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol).
Maintaining glycemic control has been shown to delay the onset and progression
of complications associated with type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes
mellitus. In addition, previous research has demonstrated that people
with type 2 (non-insulin dependent) diabetes mellitus have increased
susceptibility to atherosclerotic disease, and can also benefit from
improved glycemic control. In this eight-week study, effects of psyllium
on glycemic and serum lipid levels were investigated. Patients receiving
psyllium showed significant improvements in glucose and lipid values
relative to those taking placebo. All-day and post-meal glucose and
LDL (low density lipoprotein) cholesterol concentrations were lower
in the psyllium group than the placebo group. Psyllium was well tolerated,
with no serious adverse effects reported.
Anderson J, Allgood L, Turner
J, et al. Effects of psyllium on glucose and serum lipid responses
in men with type 2 diabetes and hypercholesterolemia. Am J Clin
Nutr 1999; 70: 466-73. |
